“Humility is about self-awareness.” – Erwin McManus, author, speaker, and pastor
The quote “Humility is about self-awareness” is attributed to Erwin McManus, a well-known author, speaker, and pastor. McManus is the lead pastor of Mosaic Church in Los Angeles, a church recognized for its creativity, innovation, and diverse community. He is also the author of several influential books on leadership, faith, and personal development, including The Artisan Soul, The Last Arrow, and The Way of the Warrior.
Context and Meaning Behind the Quote:
This particular quote reflects a recurring theme in McManus’s work: the connection between humility, self-awareness, and personal growth. He often emphasizes that true humility is not about self-deprecation or thinking less of yourself, but about having a clear, honest understanding of who you are—your strengths, weaknesses, and the impact you have on others.
McManus argues that humility is rooted in self-awareness because it requires recognizing both your value and your limitations. People who lack self-awareness may overestimate their abilities (leading to arrogance) or underestimate their worth (leading to insecurity). True humility emerges when you see yourself accurately and are comfortable with both your strengths and your imperfections.
Broader Themes in McManus’s Teachings:
- Authenticity: He frequently encourages individuals to embrace their true selves rather than striving to meet external expectations.
- Courage: Humility requires the courage to confront your weaknesses and insecurities.
- Leadership: McManus teaches that the best leaders lead from a place of humility, which fosters trust, collaboration, and growth.
Practical Application:
When McManus says, “Humility is about self-awareness,” he is encouraging people to:
- Reflect honestly on their actions, motives, and impact on others.
- Embrace personal growth by being open to feedback and acknowledging areas for improvement.
- Avoid comparison—understanding that self-worth is not determined by being better or worse than others.
This perspective aligns with the broader leadership and personal development principle that self-awareness is foundational to growth, emotional intelligence, and effective leadership.
Related Quote from McManus:
“Humility is not about pretending to be less; it is about being honest about our strengths and weaknesses.”
(The Way of the Warrior, 2019)